Both Zektor's have four inputs and the HDS4 has one passive output whilst the HDS4.2 has one passive plus one 'buffered' output - ideal for driving long cables to a projector; both outputs on the HDS4.2 are always active.

Both Zektor's act as learning remote so you 'teach' the switch commands from your existing remote or use them with a Pronto.

Both Zektor's can convert Co-axial digital to Optical digital and vice versa.

As you've seen there are many switchers aimed at the corporate presentation market that will switch or distribute YUV and RGB Component video.

I'd be very wary of using the very lowest cost switchers if you don't want to introduce artefacts into your video image - scrolling bars, lack of focus and additional noise being the common problems; not a huge issue in a training room but a big issue in your Home Theatre.

Also if your running long cables to your projector these devices really struggle to drive the cables - they are designed to drive 1-2m of VGA cable to a local monitor. And of course having VGA connectors is a double whammy as your then restricted to thinner cables for the long runs when in fact you generally want thicker cables.

If Zektor is outside your price range we have other lower cost (though not £50.00) alternatives you can try - though none will match the Zektor HDS4.2 in the set up I see you have in your profile.

Best regards

Joe

Horny - I read a post yesterday from someone in Cardiff advising customers not to cut corners for the sake of saving a few quid

Active Member

The conveter from Keene is on its way, along with an order from Maplin for lots of bits to knock together adapters for the VGA sockets.

When its all set up I'll find out if/how much it degrades the signal.

I'm keeping costs low because it all mounts up, horribly fast! After paying for the plasma and cabinet I've forked out for IR repeaters (£50), YUV splitter (£50), X10 bits (£125), cables & plugs (£100), auto ventilation for the cabinet the amps will be in (£150). £475 just on bits to integrate the whole lot!

When we started thinking about this upgrade it was just going to be a 42" plasma & stand. Not £8k of stuff!

Anyway, if the splitter isn't any good I'll just feed the DVD to the Plasma via interlaced RGB and the progressive will goto the projector. I ain't going to be spending any more for a while!

Distinguished MemberAVForums Sponsor

As you say you can use the HDS4 in the unconventional 1:4 mode - though again keep in mind the outputs are unbuffered so your relying on your source having enough puff to drive long video cables if one of the outputs is going to a ceiling mounted projector.